16 confirmed dead as bus plunges into university fence in Enugu
Tragedy struck on the Ekwegbe road along the Enugu/Opi/Nsukka road in Enugu State as a bus accident claimed the lives of sixteen passengers.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 5:20 p.m., was confirmed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe of the Enugu State Command.
The victims, consisting of 14 males and two females, suffered fatal burns beyond recognition.
The accident involved an 18-seater white-colored Toyota Hummer bus with Bauchi State commercial registration number DAS 215 XA, bearing the inscription “Masha Allah.” Reports indicate that the bus lost control while traveling at high speed, ultimately crashing into the fence of Maduka University.
Following a preliminary investigation, it was discovered that the vehicle caught fire, resulting in the tragic loss of all 16 passengers onboard.
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Despite the grim outcome, two individuals were successfully rescued by a collaborative effort involving police officers, soldiers, and compassionate citizens at the scene, promptly receiving medical attention at the hospital.
“A preliminary investigation reveals that the vehicle, loaded with edible vegetables, other food items, and the luggage of the passengers, was heading towards Nsukka from the Enugu axis of the road. However, the actual point of take-off and final destination of the vehicle has not been ascertained. Nonetheless, the items have been recovered by the Igbo-Etiti Police Division,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, in the company of officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, has visited the scene to assess the situation.
He described the accident and the carnage therein as sad, commiserating with the yet-to-be-traced family members, friends, and associates of the deceased.
The CP further called on individuals who could help in identifying the victims or with information to trace the family members of the deceased, to come forward with such information. Alternatively, call 08098880172 or 08086671202, or send emails to infoenugupolice@gmail.com.
